Opioids and benzodiazepines

Two things that don’t go together: Opioids and benzos.

 

Taking opioids and benzodiazepines — often called benzos — is a risky combination. The side effects of mixing both can impair your judgement and affect your health. Remember, you are your best advocate, so be sure to let your doctor know what medications you’re taking. That way, you can make the best decisions for your health.


Watch our video to learn more.

What are benzodiazepines and opioids?

Benzodiazepines are prescribed to treat things like anxiety, panic disorder, insomnia, and other related conditions. Some commonly prescribed generic and brand names include:

  •  Diazepam (Valium®)
  •  Alprazolam (Xanax®)
  •  Lorazepam (Ativan®)
  •  Klonopin (Clonazepam®)
  •  Temazepam (Restoril®)

Opioids are prescribed to manage and treat acute-to-chronic pain for injuries, post-surgery relief, and other conditions such as cancer. Some commonly prescribed generic and brand names include:

  •  Oxycodone/acetaminophen (Percocet®)
  •  Hydrocodone/acetaminophen (Norco®)
  •  Morphine (MS Contin®)
  •  Codeine/acetaminophen (Tylenol® #2, 3, and 4)
  •  Tramadol (Ultram®)

What happens when both drugs are combined?

Taking both opioids and benzodiazepines at the same time increases the risk of:

  •  Drowsiness
  •  Impaired cognitive function (can’t think clearly)
  •  Respiratory depression
  •  Overdose
  •  Death
  •  
14% of overdose deaths involving opioids also involved benzodiazepines.
People who use opioids and benzodiazepines concurrently are at higher risk of visiting the ER.

* National Institute on Drug Abuse: Benzodiazepines and Opioids (November 7, 2022): nida.nih.gov.

 

This document contains references to brand-name prescription drugs that are trademarks or registered trademarks of pharmaceutical manufacturers not affiliated with the health plan.

You are your best advocate

It’s time to take control of your health. Here’s what you can do to help protect your long-term health if you’re using both opioids and benzodiazepines:

  •  Ask your doctor about any concerns you have. Remember — there are no dumb questions. It’s better to be on the safe side than not.
  •  Avoid getting prescriptions from multiple doctors unless it’s part of your treatment program. Be sure to tell all your doctors which medications you’re taking to avoid negative drug interactions.
  •   Discuss other treatment options with your doctor. There may be alternative treatment options that are just as effective and safer than using opioids and benzodiazepines.